Now in its third year, Challenge Bathurst has become the must-do testing event for teams looking to compete in the 12 Hour and 6 Hour, as well as a top-notch experience for drivers at the local club level of motor sport. 

For them, it’s all about the opportunity to do laps around Mount Panorama on a closed circuit. 

Organiser James O’Brien said there were more than 400 entries for Challenge Bathurst this year, who participated in the supersprint and regularity categories from Thursday through to Sunday.

Adding to the excitement, the lap record was also broken at the event. 

German star Chris Mies clocked a scorching 1:59.2910 lap behind the wheel of an Audi R8 Ultra on Friday.

“It was an impressive lap,” Mr O’Brien said. “There was a real buzz around the paddock with everyone involved and it happened at our event, so that’s good exposure for us.”

READ MORE: Christopher Mies smashes Mount Panorama track record at Challenge Bathurst

Some drivers have stayed on track for passenger rides, held on Monday and continuing on Tuesday.

The feedback from drivers about Challenge Bathurst has also been fantastic.

“Unless someone has put their car into a wall, you can’t help going home with a smile on your face,” Mr O’Brien said.

Challenge Bathurst has continued to grow since its inception and Mr O’Brien expects that growth will be maintained in future. 

“It’s an event that has limited capacity, we are restricted by 435 [entries] … it’s not going to be a big spectator event, it’s not going to be televised because it’s not a race per se, but really it’s all about maximising the grid spots here and hopefully selling out each year and having a wait list so that we can invite returning competitors each year,” he said.

“I think we are getting close to achieving that.”